After a long hiatus, Test Cricket is set to make a grand return to Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. It has been two and a half years since red-ball cricket graced the city, but the wait is finally over as India gears up to take on New Zealand in the first of a three-Test series starting on Wednesday, October 16.
Rohit Sharma and his team have been putting in the hard yards with rigorous net sessions at the venue in preparation for the upcoming battle. The visiting New Zealand squad has also been diligently assessing the conditions, knowing that they have not won a series away from home in over three years. The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium may just provide the perfect platform for them to change that statistic.
On the other hand, India’s dominant record at home speaks volumes. Having not lost a series since 2012, they are keen to maintain their stronghold. A closely contested series is expected, with both teams hungry for victory.
The city of Bengaluru has been experiencing consistent rainfall in the lead-up to the match, with heavy showers forcing teams to skip practice sessions. The looming rain threats could potentially affect the course of the match, giving an edge to the pacers in overcast conditions.
The pitch at Chinnaswamy Stadium is known for favoring batsmen due to its flat nature, ensuring that run-scoring won’t be an issue. However, the team winning the toss will likely opt to bowl first to capitalize on the conditions on the opening day.
In a detailed history between India and New Zealand spanning back to 1955, India has emerged victorious in 22 out of the 62 Tests played between the two teams. New Zealand, with just 13 wins, will aim to improve their record in this series.
Rohit Sharma’s men enter the contest high on confidence following their recent clean sweep against Bangladesh. With a strong home record and the leadership of Sharma, India looks set to maintain their dominance in familiar conditions.
However, New Zealand faces challenges with key players missing. Star batsman Kane Williamson will be absent from the Bengaluru Test, while Ben Sears has been sidelined for the entire series. Jacob Duffy earns a maiden Test call-up, and Will Young is expected to fill the void left by Williamson.
With the stage set for a riveting clash at the historic stadium, cricket fans are bound to witness a spectacle as the battle between India and New Zealand unfolds.